Synesthesia
Exploring the Sensory Symphony
Melanie Roschko & Robin Tripaldi
Exhibition open:
April 6 – May 25, 2024
Opening reception:
April 6 from 4 pm – 6 pm
Synesthesia, a sensory symphony that unfolds within the minds of the neurodivergent, is a fascinating perceptual phenomenon that has captivated artists and scientists alike. It is a condition where the senses intertwine. The unique blending of senses results in a symphony of colors, sights, and sensations. In the realm of art, synesthesia opens new avenues for creative expression, while in the scientific realm, it unravels the intricacies of the human brain. Artists can translate their sensory experiences into visual representations, creating artwork that not only appeals to the eyes but also stimulates other senses. The symphony of colors, sights, and sensations that synesthetes experience provides a unique and captivating lens through which they perceive the world. And we gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and complexity of human perception.
In the context of our exhibit, though we don’t possess Synesthesia, we are exploring the power of two contrasting artists’ work intertwining into creations from the collision of their diversity. As artists sharing studio space, our work spoke to each other, producing symphony of emotions and ideas creating the power of artistic diversity. The symphony of colors, sights, and sensations that we experience provides a unique and captivating lens through which we perceive the world, and we invite our viewers to immerse themselves in a sensory journey.
Artist Talk
Neighborhoods Need Parks
My work is based on the study of forms and shapes, colors and lines in a spatial atmosphere. I inquire into the complexities, realities and mysteries of these elements, explore these in the depth of colors as the layers develop and the interaction of colors and textures as they relate to each other. Painting and printmaking are a means to create whatever comes to me. It is a creative process that becomes an internal conversation. However the process unfolds, I hope it is honest and valid.
My work is colorful, joyful and lyrical and my wish is for the viewer to enjoy viewing my work with a smile.
The paintings in this exhibit evolved from the prints I have been creating. I have painted similar elements in order to build neighborhoods and cities. Most are crowded and overpopulated, but appear to be happy places in spite of it. I am always excited to see where each painting finally ends.
Cities and Trees is my most recent print series. Inserted within the building blocks are trees that appear in various places and different depths. Some are up front and others disappear in the distance and create more dense cities and more involved colors. No two prints are alike as I always work to rearrange the elements and create something new and exciting.
I believe art is open to interpretation and should speak on its own.
My work is a manifestation of my inner self, an exploration of emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Through various mediums and techniques, I aim to express these intangible aspects of human existence.
Abstract expressionism serves as the foundation of my artistic practice. Comparable to a stream of consciousness, my paintings are a direct and unfiltered portrayal of my inner world. Vibrant colors, bold strokes, and spontaneous gestures give life to my canvases, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the depths of their own emotions. In addition to painting, I also engage in deconstructive mixed media collages. Through the process of tearing apart and reassembling fragments of different materials, I seek to unravel the complexities of existence. These collages serve as visual narratives, capturing the essence of both the tangible and intangible aspects of life. Encaustic painting is another medium I employ in my artistic practice. This ancient technique, which involves the use of resin, beeswax, and pigments, allows me to create highly tactile art. Assemblage sculpture is an integral part of my artistic repertoire. By incorporating three-dimensional elements, I aim to bridge the gap between the physical and emotional realms. The sculptures serve as tangible representations of my inner self, inviting the viewers to explore and interact with the art.
Working in series is a crucial aspect of my artistic process. Each series encapsulates a specific period of my life, serving as a visual diary of my emotional journey. By grouping my paintings and sculptures together, I create a cohesive narrative that allows viewers to resonate with my experiences through their own unique perspectives. Ultimately, my art reflects the human condition, an invitation to delve into the depths of our emotions and seek connections with others. Through the exploration of shapes, colors, and textures, I strive to evoke a sense of introspection and contemplation. My hope is that viewers will find solace, inspiration, or perhaps even a shared experience within the layers of my work.